Whether you’re part of Shelby Alliance Church, attend another church, or are exploring faith, we hope these resources help you read the Bible, ask honest questions, and put faith into practice.

Start with something you can use today. The church programs linked below are offered by Shelby Alliance Church in Shelby, Ohio; you can use the reading ideas and public resources wherever you worship.

Start here: Read the Bible guide for a simple reading method and seven passages from Mark. Try the prayer guide for practical prompts and original sample prayers. Explore the Christian-faith guide to learn who Jesus is and what following him means. Choose one guide and take it at your own pace.

You don’t have to read a large amount at once. Choose a short passage, read it slowly, and notice what it actually says before deciding how to apply it.

1. Read in context. Read the verses before and after the passage. Who is speaking, and who is being addressed?

2. Notice the main point. Write down what the passage shows about God, people, or following Jesus. Separate what the text says from questions you still have.

3. Respond. Turn one thought into a prayer or a practical next step. Bring difficult questions to a trusted pastor or Bible-study leader.

Keep your Bible open as you listen to teaching from Shelby Alliance Church, and return to the passage afterward.

A difficult week can make it hard to know where to begin. Our encouragement guide walks through six Bible passages, explains their context, and offers a simple way to reflect on each one.

Choose one passage rather than rushing through all six. Read it, tell God honestly what you’re facing, and consider sharing it with someone you trust.

A short conversation can be a useful beginning. Read a Bible story together, then give each person room to answer in their own words:

• What happened in this passage?

• What does it help us understand about God?

• What question would you like to ask?

• What can we pray about together?

It’s okay to say, “I don’t know yet.” Look at the passage again together rather than rushing to supply an answer.

Shelby Alliance Church’s children’s ministry uses The Biggest Story. Its family resource page introduces materials for exploring the Bible at home. This is an external publisher’s website and includes products for purchase.

Explore our children’s ministry and parent resources. For older students, visit our youth ministry page for gathering information.

What does baptism mean? When should someone be baptized? How can parents talk about it with a child? Our baptism guide explains Shelby Alliance Church’s understanding and gives you a way to ask questions.

If you already belong to another church, this may be a helpful conversation to continue with your pastor. The guide describes our church’s practice rather than every Christian tradition.

Reading on your own and learning with others can support one another. Shelby Alliance Church has a variety of ministries and pathways for growing in faith, building relationships, and taking part in church life.

There isn’t just one way to connect. Explore the ministry pages below, visit Next Steps, or browse the church calendar to learn about opportunities that may be a good fit for you or your family.

For current opportunities and schedules, check the ministry’s information or contact our team. We’re happy to help you find a place to begin.

Questions about a resource or a church program? Email staff@shelbyalliance.org or call 419-347-2160.

This collection is provided by Shelby Alliance Church, 105 East Smiley Avenue, Shelby, Ohio 44875. Our own teaching reflects our church’s beliefs. External resources are identified so you can see who publishes them.

Shelby Alliance Church offers free access to RightNow Media, a streaming library of Christian Bible studies and family resources. Explore video studies for personal growth or small groups, along with resources for children and families.

Use the invitation link below to get started with access through Shelby Alliance Church.

Hot Topics: Walking Through Life’s Hardest Questions with Scripture and Hope offers Scripture-centered reflections on difficult questions about faith and life. It invites readers to consider hard questions with honesty, biblical reflection, and hope.

Why Am I Still Like This: Gospel Truth for the Person Who’s Tired of Starting Over explores spiritual growth, the lifelong process of becoming more like Christ, and encouragement for Christians who feel discouraged by familiar struggles.

Both books are written by Pastor James Taylor. Read either book as a free PDF, or explore the paperback editions on Amazon. Paperback editions are separate purchases.